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Application of nonlinear optical microscopy for imaging skin.
Kerry M Hanson1, Christopher J Bardeen
1Department of Chemistry, University of California at Riverside, Riverside, CA, USA.
Photochemistry and Photobiology
|January 24, 2009
Summary
Nonlinear optical microscopy (NLOM) offers advanced 3D skin imaging with reduced photodamage. This powerful technique analyzes skin structure and biochemistry, potentially replacing traditional histology methods.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Biophysics
- Optical Imaging
Background:
- Traditional microscopy methods for skin analysis have limitations.
- Nonlinear optical microscopy (NLOM) presents a novel approach to skin investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present recent advances in NLOM for skin microscopy.
- To detail applications of NLOM in skin biology and biochemistry.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing nonresonant spectroscopies: second harmonic generation, coherent anti-Stokes Raman, and two-photon absorption.
- Employing near-infrared lasers for deep tissue penetration (up to 1,000 microm).
- Analyzing endogenous chemical species (collagen, lipids) and exogenous probe molecules.
Main Results:
- NLOM provides intrinsic 3D imaging with sub-micrometer resolution.
- Reduced photodamage to tissue samples compared to traditional methods.
- Enabled monitoring of skin transport, barrier homeostasis, and UV-induced ROS generation.
Conclusions:
- NLOM is a powerful tool for studying skin's physical and biochemical properties.
- Optical biopsy using NLOM may supersede invasive histological methods.
- The application of NLOM in live skin analysis is expected to expand significantly.
